The Natal Native Horse was formed in 1879, from Natal Bantu, and they rode their own ponies and served as scouts and transport men. The ranks were mainly filled by Christians from the Edendale and Dreifontein Missions. Three of the troops were drawn from the amaNgwane clan, who lived in the Drakensburg foothills in Natal, and were old enemies of the Zulus.

All of the NNH wore European clothing and had a red rag round their hats. Most preferred to ride barefoot, with their toes grasping the stirrup, but the Edendale men were booted and spurred. All were armed with carbines, and some carried hide quivers of assegais.

There were five troops of Natal Native Horse at Isandhlwana, all under Captain W. Barton, and from contemporary accounts they did their work particularly well. At Isandhlwana they fought their way through the encircling Zulus and lined the far bank of the Buffalo river to cover the flight of the survivors. If well led and intelligently employed, the Natal Native Horse excelled at their primary duties of scouting and mopping up after a battle. They were never intended as a front line force.

At Gingindhlovu there was 1 troop of Natal Native Horse present, along with Jantzi’s Native Horse which were also part of the Natal Native Horse.

Mafunzi’s Mounted Natives, was also a mounted unit, raised in 1879 with a strength of 73 men. They were to serve with the 1st Division during the Zulu War.

Scale: 1/30
Material: Pewter alloy and synthetic fibers
Released Date: May 2025